Many couples dream of an Italian-inspired celebration in the countryside of Tuscany. Steph and Boban had that dream, too. 

However, the uncertainty of travel due to the pandemic left them searching for a venue that could transport them and their guests to the idyllic landscapes of Europe —right here in Australia.

Their journey led them to the enchanting Redleaf estate in the Hunter Valley, where they crafted a day filled with elegance and Old World charm—and the Italian-style wedding they had dreamed of.

A Tuscan Vision Come to Life

Steph’s vision for her wedding was clear from the start. She longed for the charm of an outdoor garden ceremony and reception—the kind you’d find in the picturesque countryside of Italy or France.

The moment she laid eyes on Redleaf, she knew she had found the perfect place. The venue, with its rustic elegance and lush surroundings, perfectly matched Steph’s dreams.

The ceremony took place in front of the venue’s lavender garden. A sea of florals of varying heights lined the pine aisle, creating a breathtaking backdrop for the vow exchange.

When it was time for the reception, guests were welcomed into the space by a gold-framed mirror welcome sign. They were also given lace ivory fans and white paper parasols to keep cool on the beautiful summer day.

The reception was held alfresco in front of the main villa. Two long tables were draped with white linen and adorned with an ivory table runner, floral garden bowls, gold tableware, crystal-cut candles, glassware, and handcrafted calligraphy name tags and menus. The warmth and family-style dining added to the charm of the evening.

Golden Hour Portraits and the Bride’s Stunning Look

After the reception, I stole the couple away for a few golden hour portraits. We strolled through the stunning Redleaf estate, and I captured the bride and groom hand-in-hand enjoying a moment to themselves.

Steph looked stunning in her Lee Petra Grebenau gown, featuring a strapless corset fitted with exquisite floral and pearl embellishments. She paired it with mesh white crystal stilettos from Jimmy Choo, a loose braid hairstyle with silk chiffon flower hairpins, and dangling floral-cut crystal earrings by Jennifer Behr.

Given that her dress had a detachable skirt and sleeves, she had the opportunity to have a few different looks on the day. She wore the skirt and sleeves for the ceremony and reception. Then, she took off the skirt for the golden hour portraits. And for the after-party, Steph made her dress sleeveless. 

And speaking of the after-party—it was just as elegantly decorated as the rest of the event. Guests danced the night away in a marquee draped in ivory chiffon, adorned with crystal chandeliers and white, apricot, and blush floral tones.  

Party Where You’re Planted

Steph and Boban’s Italian-style wedding in the heart of Australia was a dream come true. It showed how you can create the luxury and elegance of an Italian destination wedding without leaving your home country.

And no matter where you’re celebrating, you’ll need someone to preserve your memories. Contact me for fine art photos that capture the beauty of your day. 

Vendor Credits:

Photographer: Sheri McMahon Photography | Venue: Redleaf Wollombi | Planning: Love Story Australia | Videographer: Soda Films | Invitations: Be Seen Designs | Signs: Azalea Calligraphy | Gown salon: Helen Rodrigues Bridal | Gown designer: Lee Grebenau | Accessories: Jennifer Behr | Flowers: Two Wild Hands | Make-up: Yen Make-up | Hair: Bridal Hair Collective | Cake: By Gigi | Celebrant: Ruth Matos Celebrant | Rentals: Simply Seated, Crab Apple Hire Style and Dine Divine Hire | Marquee: Bennelong Event Hire | Bar: Stedmans Hospitality | Lights: Starlight Chandeliers | Gelato bar: Ciao Pepis